Trimethylglycine (betaine) is a very common molecule in nature. It can be found in shellfish (6-14g/kg) and in sugar beets and is a by-product of sugar beet processing, where it reaches a content of 8% molasses. The pure form, obtained through separation from molasses by industrial chromatography, has been employed in diet supplements in the United States, in animal feed (0.2 to 15g/kg) ans such industrial applications as anti-corrosive heat exchange liquids. In-depth studies have been carried out in order to understand its unusual behavior in water.

Excerpt Only This is a shortened version or summary of the article that appeared in the Dec. 1, 2000 issue of Cosmetics & Toiletries magazine. The full content is not currently available online.